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Seager getting right against lefties

5/3/13: Kyle Seager drills one to deep right field for a two-run shot that pushes the Mariners ahead in the top of the fourth inning

By Chris Toman
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Special to MLB.com |

TORONTO -- Part of third baseman Kyle Seager's transition to becoming a more complete player is his ability to hit left-handed pitching.

Seager, a left-handed hitter, has gradually improved in that department since making his Major League debut in 2010 and has gained the trust of manager Eric Wedge as a result.

The 25-year-old Seager didn't play much during his rookie season in 2011, and even less against southpaws, but had just a .570 OPS against them. Last season, that number went up to .658 and he hit seven homers against left-handers.

This season, Seager has already gone deep three times vs. lefties and has a .749 OPS. Wedge is well aware of the strides he has made.

"Seeing the ball is a big part of it, but also having the same direction he has against right-handers," Wedge said. "When he does that, he uses the entire field. He can line that ball the other way or drive it pull side, or even drive it to the middle.

"He is just putting himself in a better position to hit left-handers this year."

Seager said he made a small adjustment that has allowed him to see the ball better. He created a different angle at the plate by moving his feet around in the box.

That has given him newfound confidence when stepping up to the dish.

"You try to stay simple," Seager said. "You treat it like you're facing a righty. It's just hitting at that point."

Seager has gotten off to a hot start this year after an impressive sophomore season a year ago. Entering play Saturday, he was batting .304 with four homers, and a team-high 15 RBIs and .365 on-base percentage.

Chris Toman is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.